DV Lottery 2026: Suspension, Uncertainty, and Full List of Affected Countries

DV Lottery 2026 Suspension: What You Need to Know

The DV Lottery 2026 (Diversity Visa Program) is currently temporarily suspended by the U.S. government. The program was not launched in 2025 and is now under review, creating uncertainty for DV-2026 and DV-2027.

What is the DV Lottery 2026?

The DV Lottery 2026 (Diversity Visa Program 2026) is the official U.S. program that allows international applicants to obtain a permanent residency visa (U.S. Green Card).

However, the program is currently suspended for national security reasons, affecting:

• Registrations for DV Lottery 2026
• Scheduled interviews
• Future prospects for DV-2026 and DV-2027

Note: Visas already issued remain valid and are not affected by this suspension.

Why Was the DV Lottery 2026 Suspended?

In December 2025, the U.S. President announced a temporary pause of the DV Lottery due to:

• Security concerns: Incidents involving DV beneficiaries raised national security issues
• Program review: The Department of State is reassessing selection and screening procedures
• Impact on applicants: Suspension of new applications and interviews for DV-2026
• Existing visas: All issued visas remain valid
• Uncertain future: The program may evolve into a merit-based system

Suspension of Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries (Effective January 21, 2026)

On January 21, 2026, the U.S. government temporarily suspended the issuance of immigrant visas for 75 countries to strengthen application control and security.

• Affected visas: Immigrant visas only (permanent residence)
• Non-immigrant visas (tourism, business): Not affected
• Appointments: Maintained, but no visas will be issued
• Existing visas: Remain valid

Countries affected include: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, and many others (total of 75 countries).

 
Consequences for DV 2026 Applicants

• Interviews suspended: No visas will be issued during the pause
• Issued visas remain valid
• Dual nationals: If using a passport from a non-affected country, the suspension may not apply
• Uncertain future: Resumption depends on government decisions

Practical Tips to Maximize Your Chances

• Follow official announcements from the U.S. Embassy and Department of State
• Do not submit applications before the official reopening
• Prepare your documents for DV-2026 and DV-2027
• Stay ready for possible changes, including a merit-based system

FAQ – DV Lottery 2026 Suspension

Q1: Is the DV Lottery 2026 canceled?
A: No, it is temporarily suspended.

Q2: Can I still apply if I am from one of the 75 countries?
A: No, applications are currently on hold.

Q3: Are interviews canceled?
A: No, but no visas will be issued during the suspension.

Q4: Are already issued visas affected?
A: No, they remain valid.

Q5: When will the program resume?
A: No official date has been announced.

Q6: Could the program be replaced by a merit-based system?
A: Yes, but no law has been passed yet.

 
The DV Lottery 2026 is currently on hold, affecting 75 countries, including Cameroon. Applicants should:

• Follow official updates
• Carefully prepare their applications
• Stay ready for possible changes for DV-2026 and DV-2027

Existing visas remain secure, and the program may either resume or evolve into a merit-based system.